Hotel Rwanda

I believe that Jack was right in saying, "If people see this footage, they'll say 'Oh my God, that's horrible,' and then they'll go on eating their dinners." This occurs every single day in all of our lives. People see terrible things on the news but hardly anyone ever reacts to this news by trying to help. Many think that they cannot make a difference because he or she is just one person. I believe that even if governments saw this news they would hesitate to become involved because it is such a dangerous situation and there are so many risks.

I think I would try to get people to help by raising awareness in my school and community. Most movements in history have started by simple and small movements. My hope would be that raising this awareness could in turn raise money for support. I think that this would also be beneficial to helping the victims of the Rwanda genocide. Another way I could get involved is to create petitions or a movement to have our government negotiate the French and their funding of the armies in Rwanda.

Unfortunately I believe that Jack had a valid point. However, I do have faith and hope in the people of our world that some would at least attempt to help if this were to happen again.

Jesus on Money and Material Possessions

I think that it is necessary to know the difference between having money and using it in its right way and worshiping money. I do not think it is a sin to strive to be successful and wealthy as long as you are still devoted to God. I do not think one needs to be "poor" as in having no money or possessions to enter the kingdom of God,  however I think one should be "poor" in not needing money or possessions to make one happy. Many wealthy people still follow God's word and even use their wealth to help those in need. I think that people like this understand the separation needed to enter the kingdom of God. 

Theology of Suffering

After reading Kenneth R. Overberg's article "The Mystery of Suffering: How Should I Respond?" three main points are made known about Jesus and suffering. Through the Gospels, we are made aware that Jesus healed those who suffered and tried to eliminate suffering. We also know that Jesus condemned the idea that suffering was a punishment for sin. Jesus describes suffering as something from God to make us stronger for a separate reason. Jesus also trusted that God allowed suffering for a reason and Jesus fully trusted God. We know that Jesus was always faithful and loyal to God, trusting in Him no matter what. Throughout the Bible, we realize that many of God's people see suffering as a punishment for sin. These views relate to "A Theology of Atonement/Ransom" which describes God as an all powerful being who afflicts suffering on those who have done Him wrong. "A Theology of Incarnation" is the thought that Jesus' coming and suffering was not a response to original sin and the fall of humanity, however it was planned from the beginning of creation. Jesus' life is in reality the fulfillment of God's wish to become human. I prefer "A Theology of Incarnation" because I see God as using Jesus as part of His plan for His creation. I believe God has a specific reason for all suffering and everything in the world to make us stronger and to evoke change.

Should Muhammad Ali Receive the Freedom Medal?

After doing further research on the topic, I believe that Muhammad Ali does deserve to win the Freedom Medal. The Freedom Medal, as suggested by the name, is awarded to someone who promotes our Constitution's rights to freedom. Ali enforced these rights in many ways, including securing the return of many Americans held hostage. In 1985, Ali traveled to Lebanon to release four hostages. Similarly, Ali has traveled to Iraq to free 15 US hostages during the first Gulf War, and has visited Iran recently to attempt to release two American hikers held captive. Muhammad Ali has made missions to both Afghanistan and North Korea and has given over one million dollars in aid to Cuba. Though many see Ali as just a decorated boxer who allegedly tried to avoid the Vietnam War draft, Muhammad Ali has also spent great amounts of time and money helping to better our world. His charitable works and travels oversees for the freedom of many Americans perfectly embodies the spirit of a Freedom Medal recipient.